Galápagos Islands Virtual Tour

The Galápagos Islands are one of the most extraordinary places on Earth. Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, this volcanic archipelago inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution and remains one of the world's most pristine wildlife sanctuaries.

Thanks to National Geographic and Google, you can now explore the islands virtually — swimming alongside sea turtles, walking among blue-footed boobies, and watching giant tortoises that can live over 100 years.

National Geographic VR Exploration

Google Street View: Walk the Islands

Wildlife You'll Encounter

• Giant Tortoises — The islands' namesake. Some individuals alive today were born before Darwin's visit in 1835.
• Marine Iguanas — The only lizards on Earth that swim in the ocean, diving to graze on algae.
• Blue-Footed Boobies — Famous for their bright blue feet and elaborate courtship dance.
• Galápagos Penguins — The only penguins found north of the equator.
• Darwin's Finches — The 13 species that inspired the theory of natural selection.
• Sea Turtles — Green sea turtles nest on the islands' beaches year-round.
• Hammerhead Sharks — Schools of hundreds gather around the northern islands.

The Islands

1. Santa Cruz — Home to the Charles Darwin Research Station and highland tortoise reserves
2. Isabela — The largest island, with active volcanoes and marine iguana colonies
3. San Cristóbal — Darwin's first landing point, now a sea lion haven
4. Fernandina — The most pristine island, with the largest marine iguana colony
5. Genovesa (Tower Island) — A birdwatcher's paradise with thousands of nesting seabirds

Enhance Your Virtual Visit